A powerful winter storm sweeping across the United States is blamed for at least 22 deaths, according to officials in several states.
Authorities say the deaths span a wide range of incidents, from traffic accidents to exposure and snow removal injuries, as dangerous weather conditions continue to grip much of the country.
Fatal Accidents Reported in Several States
In Frisco, Texas, near Dallas, police said a 16-year-old girl died in a sledding accident.
Officers said the girl and another teen were riding a sled being pulled by a car driven by a teenage boy. The sled struck a curb and then crashed into a tree.
In the Austin area, officials said a person was found dead in the parking lot of an abandoned gas station. Authorities believe the victim died from hypothermia.
In Arkansas, a 17-year-old boy died after being pulled by an all-terrain vehicle in snowy conditions. The Saline County Sheriff’s Office said the teen struck a tree.
Snow Removal Proves Deadly for Some
In Lehigh County, Pennsylvania, the county coroner said three people died while removing snow. The victims were between 60 and 84 years old.
The coroner urged caution, especially for people with heart disease or other medical conditions, warning that snow shoveling can be physically dangerous.
In New York, city officials reported five deaths linked to the storm. On Long Island, a retired police officer died while shoveling snow, according to ABC station WABC.
In Verona, New Jersey, police said a man was found dead with a shovel still in his hand.
Additional Deaths Linked to the Storm
In Massachusetts, local officials said a woman died after being struck by a snow plow backing up in a parking lot.
Elsewhere, officials confirmed additional storm-related deaths:
- Three in Tennessee
- Two in Louisiana
- Two in Mississippi
- One in Kansas
Authorities did not release details about those incidents.
How Severe Winter Weather Turns Deadly
The storm’s death toll highlights the dangers of winter weather beyond icy roads.
Officials warn that exposure, strenuous activity, and risky behavior can turn deadly during extreme cold and snow.
Emergency managers continue to urge residents to limit travel, dress warmly, and take frequent breaks when clearing snow.
